The kidney transplant

(more probing questions)

December 4, 1980

A citizen, otherwise healthy and productive, is in desperate need of a kidney transplant. Without a transplant, he will soon die.

A search of medical records reveals that one citizen is the perfect match. Only a transplant of his kidney will give a high probability of success. The prospective donor is healthy and strong. It is likely that he will survive in normal strength and health after a transplant.

The prospective donor refuses to submit to the procedure and donate his kidney.

The coercive power of the state is used to apprehend the prospective donor, take him to the medical center, and put him under sedation. His kidney is removed and transplanted. After the recovery period, both the donor and recipient are restored to full health.

Question: Does this sequence of events demonstrate justice, or injustice? At which points in the sequence?